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The UFC White House fight to celebrate President DonaldTrump’s 80th birthday didn’t have the desired outcome the company was hoping for. 

Ari Emanuel, TKO Group's executive chairman and CEO, described the June 14 UFC Freedom 250 event as “a roaring success,” but it was recently revealed that the fight is responsible for a $30 million loss. 

“TKO’s unique ability to deliver one-on-one live events and experiences was front and center in the second quarter. Nothing illustrates this better than UFC Freedom 250 held in June,” Emanuel said during the company’s Q2 2026 earnings call, according to Variety. “This event was a roaring success for our company, the UFC brand and the sport of mixed martial arts, exposure, earned media, audience expansion and a weekend-long fan experience.”

UFC Freedom 250 saw around 8.2 million viewers in the U.S. and Latin America via Paramount+, and the streamer cited it as the most-watched live exclusive event ever.

In 2025, Paramount announced a seven-year, $7.7 billion media rights deal that made Paramount+ the exclusive streamer of UFC in the United States. This new model ended the previous pay-per-view option. 

TKO CFO AndrewSchleimer shared that with UFC Freedom 250, “we incurred significantly higher-than-normal costs, which we partially offset with sold out global partnerships inventory. As a reminder, we did not sell tickets and therefore did not record any live events revenue. Given the event’s financial profile, which as anticipated, resulted in approximately $30 million loss, our margins at UFC as well as on a consolidated basis, were meaningfully impacted.”

The company said that the UFC Freedom 250 was used “to leverage this event and its value to sign up partners that impact ’26, ’27 and in some cases, ’28 and beyond,” according to Schleimer. “So we feel really good about our positioning going into next year.”

Dylan Sprouse once had a cigarette so good, he decided it should be his last.

During an appearance on the Not Skinny But Not Fat podcast on Tuesday, August 4, The Suite Life of Zack & Cody alum recalled dining at the Chateau Marmont with his wife, Barbara Palvin, and friends when he recognized David Lynch’s iconic voice at a nearby table. 

Sprouse was a longtime fan of the late filmmaker, but he didn’t want to interrupt his dinner or ask him for a photo. Eventually, the 34-year-old stepped outside for a cigarette—and Lynch followed soon after.

He then asked Sprouse if he could spare a cigarette and a light. Sprouse handed them over without thinking much of it, and Lynch walked away to go smoke. It wasn’t until Laura Dern came outside to join the Twin Peaks director that Sprouse realized just what he had done. When Dern asked Lynch for a cigarette, he reached into his pocket and pulled out a fresh pack and his own lighter. In other words, he had never actually needed to borrow either from Sprouse.

Lynch returned to the restaurant, but not before saying something to Sprouse first. “David walks out, and he goes, ‘I just want to tell you, you're very polite, thank you,” Sprouse remembered. “I think he's one of the smartest guys, and I think he noticed and he knew. That's why he had a fresh pack of cigarettes. He had a lighter.”

Sprouse believes Lynch had recognized him as a fan and quietly created the encounter so he could have the experience without asking for it. The small gesture left such an impression that Sprouse couldn’t imagine another cigarette measuring up. “It made me want to quit smoking, and I'll tell you why. Because I'll never have a better cigarette than that in my entire life,” he explained.

READ MORE: Dylan Sprouse and Barbara Palvin Expecting First Child

The actor also walked away with something he considered far more valuable than the standard celebrity souvenir. “I was elated, and he gave me a story that is better than any picture, any autograph, anything,” Sprouse said.

While the experience may have put him off cigarettes, Sprouse admitted it didn’t end his relationship with nicotine altogether. “I immediately started smoking the geek bars after,” he joked.

Sprouse and Palvin married on July 15, 2023. Nearly three years later, Palvin is in the final stretch of her pregnancy, which she announced during the Cannes Film Festival this year. “I'm extremely excited. It's a girl, I think this is the first…Sprouse girl born in a very long time,” Sprouse said on the pod. Their daughter is reportedly due in August or September. 

Halloween decorating has become bigger than ever, with giant skeletons, spooky inflatables and haunted house displays taking over neighborhoods each fall. 

But according to real-life witches Celeste Mott and Cassidy Claspell, some of the most common Halloween decorating trends have little to do with the holiday's actual history—and in some cases, they even misrepresent symbols that have been used in spiritual traditions for centuries. 

"If you're looking to keep your halloween decor spiritually authentic, there are a few things you may want to avoid," says Celeste Mott, a writer and the professional witch behind @celestemott. 

Cassidy Claspell, the traditional witch and mystic behind @veilandaltar, agrees: "Most Halloween decorating mistakes come from symbols getting flattened into 'spooky' without anyone checking what they used to mean," she explains.

If you'd like your Halloween decor to feel a little more historically inspired this year, here are 6 Halloween decorating mistakes to avoid, according to real-life witches.

Meet the Real-Life Witches Celeste Mott reveals the biggest Halloween decorating mistakes she sees most commonly.

Celeste Mott

Real-life witch Cassidy Claspell explains some common misconceptions she often sees when it comes to Halloween decorations.

Cassidy Claspell

1. Hanging an Inverted Pentagram on Your Porch

Pentagrams have become a common Halloween motif, but Claspell says the orientation matters.

"A common mistake is decor that uses an upside-down pentagram to signal witchy, when in most modern pagan and witchcraft traditions the point-up pentagram represents the five elements and is used protectively," explains Cassidy. "The inversion changes the meaning, so it's worth knowing the difference before it goes on your porch," she says.

2. Making Everything About Gore

While horror movies certainly have their place during Halloween, Mott says they're separate from the holiday's traditional roots.

"Focusing on gore, blood, and pop-culture characters misses the point. While those things can be a lot of fun (I love horror movies!), it doesn't have much to do with the traditional celebration of halloween," Celeste explains.

3. Treating Black Cats as Bad Luck

Black cats may be one of Halloween's most recognizable symbols, but Claspell says their sinister reputation isn't rooted in actual witchcraft.

"Another mistake is leaning into black cats as purely sinister," shares Cassidy. "Historically, cats were kept by plenty of households, simply to control mice, and the evil-familiar reputation came later from persecution-era propaganda rather than any real practice."

4. Forgetting to Honor the Dead

According to Mott, Halloween has historically been less about frightening monsters and more about remembering loved ones who have passed away.

"Shift away from scary and toward spiritual," recommends Celeste. "Halloween is about honoring the dead, inviting in helpful spirits, and deterring malevolent spirits that wish us harm. Decorations that focus on thoughtfully remembering the dead (with a macabre, memento mori twist) are more meaningful than monsters, cartoon characters, and sexy party city costumes."

5. Thinking Ouija Boards Come From Witchcraft

Ouija boards are often marketed as spooky Halloween decor, but Claspell says their origins are much more modern than many people realize.

"A mistake I see a lot is decor or displays treating Ouija boards as witchcraft tools," Cassidy says. "They were actually a Victorian-era parlor game patented by a novelty company in the 1890s, not something that comes out of any witchcraft tradition."

6. Forgetting That Pumpkins Weren't the Original Jack-o'-Lantern

Pumpkins have become synonymous with Halloween, but they weren't always the vegetable of choice.

"Switch your pumpkin for a turnip!" Celeste suggests. "Carving pumpkins for jack-o-lanterns likely originated in 19th Century America, and is not strictly authentic—our ancestors used other readily available root vegetables, like turnips! Pumpkins are definitely easier to carve, however," she admits.

While I'm not much of a smoothie person, my son definitely is. So when we're both looking for a snack and stop at his go-to Jamba, I'm usually left in the dust. He happily scans the menu for his favorite fruity blend while I try to convince myself that I'm in the mood for a smoothie, too. But that may be changing, because Jamba is testing something pretty scrumptious that goes beyond its signature drinks.

The smoothie chain is giving a sandwich lineup a go at 95 participating locations across California, Colorado, Nevada and Arizona, which means I can satisfy my love of bread while my kid sips on a Strawberries Wild. The limited-time menu launched in July and will be available through Oct. 14, giving customers another option when they're craving something a little more substantial than a drink or bowl (no disrespect to those offerings).

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This isn't just a lineup of basic grab-and-go sandwiches. Jamba is offering several choices, including the Rotisserie Chicken Avo Ranch, which layers rotisserie chicken with avocado, white cheddar, provolone, spinach, bacon and ranch on ciabatta. There's also the Rotisserie Chicken Pesto, combining chicken, cheese, roasted tomato, spinach and pesto mayo, while the J.B.S.T. puts Jamba's spin on a classic BLT with bacon, roasted tomato, spinach and mayo on sourdough.

Jamba's new handcrafted sandwiches

Courtesy Jamba

If you're a vegetarian, don't worry, you aren't being left out. There's the Market Pesto, featuring roasted tomato, spinach, white cheddar, provolone and pesto mayo on ciabatta. Aside from that, you can choose from a classic Cheese Melt or the Blueberry Dipper Cheese Melt, which comes with a blueberry mango dip for a sweet-and-savory twist.

The menu even includes a PB Nutella Crunch sandwich made with peanut butter, Nutella, banana and granola on sourdough. That one sounds like it could easily pull double duty as a snack or dessert.

Related: Dollar General's $5 Vintage-Inspired Serving Platter Looks Straight Out of Grandma's China Cabinet

This Isn't Jamba's First Non-Smoothie Menu Item

Jamba has been dipping its toes in the non-smoothie waters for a moment now. On the menu at many locations, you'll find soft pretzels, Belgian waffles and even a sausage, egg and cheese breakfast sandwich. That's in addition to acai bowls and oatmeal bowls.

Just remember, the sandwich lineup is only available for a limited time at select locations, so you'll want to check whether your local Jamba is participating before making a special trip. If the test is a success, hopefully you'll see a larger rollout of the sandwiches with a more permanent spot on the chain's menu.

Related: Target's Rustic 5-Tier Kitchen Rack Brings Fresh Farmstand Vibes Into Your Home

Every single time Jefferson Airplane's "White Rabbit" is played, I experience full-body chills. Perhaps it is the menacing opening riff and creeping bassline that has a distinguishably '60s psychedelic twang, the double-meaning lyrics, or maybe it is Grace Slick's undeniable vocal prowess, but something about this song gets under your skin and just lives there.

The hallucinogenic song ranked No. 1 on Ultimate Classic Rock's Best Book Song list, which is pretty impressive considering it is in the company of 'The Battle of Evermore' by Led Zeppelin and 'For Whom the Bell Tolls' by Metallica. The song is directly based on Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, with lyrics that reference specific moments in the book, such as "When the White Knight is walking backward / And the Red Queen's off with her head."

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Grace Slick Explains the Real Meaning Behind 'White Rabbit'

However, the song itself is so much more than just a clever ode to the illustrated children's tale. According to a report by Louder, Slick always explained that the song was pointed at "hypocritical" parents who read "drug-laced" stories to their kids at their most impressionable, vulnerable ages.

“In all those children’s stories, you take some kind of chemical and have a great adventure,” she told writer Mark Paytress. “Alice In Wonderland is blatant. Eat me! She gets literally high, too big for the room. Drink me! The caterpillar is sitting on a psychedelic mushroom smoking opium!”

Slick reportedly wrote it after listening to Miles Davis' Sketches of Spain for 24 hours on an upright piano that was missing keys for her band The Great Society.

Related: Iconic 1977 Duet Ranked the No. 1 Rock Karaoke Song of All Time

“When we started working, nobody had anything because I couldn’t write any more,” The Great Society rhythm guitarist David Miner claims of what pushed her to write it. “I was too busy keeping up with my various jobs. So Grace’s husband, Jerry Slick, challenged them: ‘What are you gonna do? Let David write all the songs?’ Y’know, ‘Do something!’. So Darby Slick came back with a couple of songs, and Grace came back with 'White Rabbit.'”

However, as The Great Society was unraveling, she was asked to join Jefferson Airplane and took the song with her. It was three times as long as the singleJefferson Airplane ultimately released. While the longer version has the same fascinating lyrics but more musical twists and turns, it doesn't carry the haunting, alluring appeal of Jefferson Airplane's version.

Surprisingly, it nearly didn't make the album.

“Grace had two songs she brought with her from The Great Society,” Jefferson Airplane bassist Jack Casady told the outlet. “But 'White Rabbit' was the song we were going to leave off the album because we thought it would never get released, we thought it was going to be censored. It eventually became a big deal because it made the album and then got dispersed into the crowd whenever we played live. Otherwise, it was just a little two-and-a-half-minute song that was kind of a lark.”

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Warm weather calls for lightweight and breathable footwear that's supportive enough for all your daily activities. If you've been searching for an effortlessly stylish pair of shoes that you can easily throw on before heading out the door, Amazon has a new deal that's worth checking out. Skechers' Martha Stewart Arch Fit Slip-Ins are now on sale for up to 42% off, and they have a soft, cushioned feel that's comfortable to wear all day long. 

Originally priced at $89, the top-rated shoes are now on sale for as low as $51 in the leopard print option. You can also shop the same pattern in a black charcoal color at $60. Sizes range from 5 to 11 (including half sizes), although availability varies based on color.  

Skechers Martha Stewart Arch Fit Slip-Ins, From $51 (were $89) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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These popular slip-on loafers feature a pillowy footbed that molds to your foot, allowing for even weight distribution and reducing shock during every step. Featuring Skechers' patented Arch Fit insole, the shoes provide plenty of support for walks, everyday errands, and long days on your feet. The slip-in design allows you to effortlessly put them on and off, making them suitable for people of all ages or those with mobility issues, and the stretchy fit offers flexible, sock-like comfort. 

Made of 100% vegan materials, these shoes have an airy, breathable that's perfect for warm weather. The 1.1-inch heel provides a slight lift, while the rubber textured outsole enhances traction on uneven surfaces. The cute animal print, neutral colors, and sparkly bow accent gives them a chic feel that's slightly dressier than your average flip-flops, but as comfortable as a sneaker. 

Related: Walmart's $3 Cotton-Linen T-Shirt Is 'Super Comfy,' Breezy, and Perfect for Summer

These Skechers slip-ins have earned plenty of high praise from Amazon shoppers. Several highlighted the "comfortable," "cushiony" footbed, with one noting that they offer "great arch support." Another buyer said the "cute," sleek design adds a "polished look" to pretty much any outfit. 

Shop More Deals

• Skechers On-the-Go 600 Brilliancy Sandals, $45 (were $50) at Amazon
• Kidmi H-Band Flat Sandals, From $26 (were $40) at Amazon
• Mazeskin Faux-Leather Flip-Flops, From $14 (were $22) at Amazon

If you've been searching for a cute and comfy pair of shoes that you can easily dress up or down for a variety of occasions, these Skechers' Martha Stewart slip-ins are a great addition to any wardrobe. They're stylish, cushiony, and available in two classic colors that pair well with anything. Grab them while they're on sale for nearly $51 at Amazon. 

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Halloween decorating often leans into oversized skeletons, spooky inflatables and haunted house props—but according to real-life witches, some of the most meaningful Halloween decor is rooted in centuries-old traditions. While Hollywood has certainly shaped the way many people decorate for spooky season, there are also symbols and practices with genuine historical ties to witchcraft and harvest celebrations.

"A lot of Halloween decor is pure horror-movie invention, but some of it comes straight out of real folk practice. The pieces with actual history behind them tend to be a bit more subtle than plastic skeletons," says Cassidy Claspell, the traditional witch and mystic behind @veilandaltar. 

Celeste Mott, the writer and professional witch behind @celestemott, agrees, adding, "Black cats, magical sigils, and keys all feature in my witchy halloween decor.”

Meet the Real-Life Witches Cassidy Claspell, the traditional witch and mystic behind @veilandaltar, shares her tips for how to decorate for Halloween.

Cassidy Claspell

Celeste Mott, the writer and professional witch behind @celestemott, gives us the inside scoop on how real-life witches decorate for Halloween.

Celeste Mott

How to Decorate for Halloween, According to Real-Life Witches1. Create an Ancestor Altar

Thirdman

One decorating tradition many witches embrace is creating an ancestor altar to honor loved ones who have passed away.

"Many witches decorate with photos of deceased relatives because Halloween's roots trace back to Samhain, a harvest festival many pagans and folk practitioners still mark as the point when the veil between the living and the dead is thinnest. Try setting up a small table with photos, a candle, and a favorite food or drink of someone who's passed," says Cassidy.

2. Decorate With Candles Instead of String Lights

Sarah Chumacero

Candles have long played an important role in seasonal traditions, making them a meaningful alternative to standard Halloween string lights.

"Witches often lean on candlelight instead of string lights because fire has long been used in folk practice to mark liminal nights and hold back the dark. Try lining a windowsill with black or white taper candles instead of the usual orange twinkle lights," Cassidy says.

Celeste also recommends incorporating candles into your Halloween decor: "You can't go wrong with a good candle! Fire safety notwithstanding, candle magic is some of the most potent (but simple) spellwork you can do, and halloween is a great time to make an aesthetic candle display to guide good spirits toward your home and bad spirits away from your threshold."

3. Display Apples as Seasonal Decor

Mykhaylo Kopyt

Pumpkins may steal the spotlight each October, but apples have their own rich history in fall traditions.

"Apples are tied to older harvest festivals and divination games, like apple bobbing or peel-tossing, that predate the holiday's spookier branding. Try piling apples in a bowl with cinnamon sticks instead of reaching for plastic decor," Cassidy says.

The arrangement doubles as both a festive centerpiece and a subtle nod to Halloween's historical roots.

4. Add Black Cat Decor

Grandin Road

Black cats have become one of Halloween's most recognizable symbols, but for many witches, they represent much more than spooky season.

"Black cats are iconic at halloween time. The spirit of the black cat is extremely lucky and considered a protective familiar for those who practice witchcraft. Even if you're not a cat person, any image of a black cat can be used to call forth that protective spirit into your home," says Celeste.

Whether it's a figurine, black cat artwork—like this vintage-inspired design from Grandin Road—or a simple silhouette, black cat decor can easily be incorporated into almost any Halloween decorating style.

5. Skip Fake Spiderwebs—DIY Your Own Instead

KAi'S PHOTOGRAPHY

Instead of stretching synthetic spiderwebs across your porch, Celeste recommends a more intentional approach.

"Fake spiderwebs are popular halloween decor, but they can be detrimental to local wildlife—ironically, even actual spiders! Instead, witches can weave their own spiderwebs from cord or ribbon, and speak intentions into the web as they craft," Celeste explain. "Hang them up inside for a spooky look that's also active, effective spellwork."

It's a creative alternative that adds handmade charm while avoiding the environmental concerns associated with traditional fake spiderwebs.

A story he believed was finished has given one of rock's most recognizable drummers an unexpected reason to return.

Albert Bouchard, a founding member of Blue Öyster Cult, has announced a new album titled Imaginos IV: Rhyme of the Starclock. The 11-track record will be released through Deko Entertainment on Sept. 25.

The news comes 59 years after Bouchard helped form the group in 1967 and would eventually be renamed to Blue Öyster Cult in 1971. He had previously played alongside guitarist Donald Roeser, later known as Buck Dharma, in a college band before the musicians left school and began the project that would launch their careers.

As Blue Öyster Cult's original drummer, Bouchard performed on the group's most celebrated records and contributed songwriting and lead vocals to "Cities on Flame With Rock and Roll." He also played on "(Don't Fear) The Reaper," whose cowbell later inspired one of Saturday Night Live's most famous sketches.

Bouchard left Blue Öyster Cult in the early 1980s, but the Imaginos concept continued to occupy much of his career. After initially developing the material as a solo project, he revisited it with Re Imaginos in 2020, followed by two more albums that appeared to complete the story.

That changed after roughly 1,000 pages of writings by Blue Öyster Cult manager and producer Sandy Pearlman were discovered when his house was sold. The collection reportedly contained at least 28 unrecorded lyrics, many of which directly connected to the Imaginos story.

"Over the past 12 months, I have recorded more than 20 of those songs," Bouchard explained in a statement shared by Blabbermouth. "I am very excited to bring brand-new material to this epic story."

The first single, "Four Winds Bar," was written by Pearlman and Bouchard's brother Joe. The album also features guest appearances from Lenny Kaye, Ross "The Boss" Friedman and Keith Roth.

What once appeared to be a completed trilogy will now continue through material its creator left behind decades ago.

Related: '70s Rocker and Member of Beloved Rock Band Turns 80

George R. R. Martin is getting incredibly candid with fans.

The bestselling author of A Song of Ice and Fire, the massively popular fantasy series that inspired HBO’s Game of Thrones, revealed that his months-long absence from the public eye coincided with a difficult year marked by sadness, depression, and the loss of friends.

In a post titled "Better Late Than Never," Martin begins by addressing his absence: “Remember me? It’s been a while, I know. My last blog post went up here on February 19.”

He then explains how hard the year has been.

Tristar Media / Getty Images

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“This year has been … stressful, to say the least,” he wrote. “So much has been happening; it’s been overwhelming—some great things, exciting things. Dreams coming true. But there have been nightmares too. I have lost friends. Battled sadness and depression.”

Though he doesn’t reveal information about who he’s lost, he adds that “the worst may be yet to come.” With his 78th birthday approaching in September, it seems Martin is feeling the weight of mortality as he reflects on aging.

“I turned 77 last September, and I tell you, getting old is no fun,” he says.

But there are amazing things for Martin to look forward to.

Related: Best-Selling Author’s 1954 Novel Ranked the Greatest Book of All Time

As he notes in his post, the most recent adaptation of his novels, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, has been nominated for nine Emmy Awards, with the hit HBO Max series also nabbing an Outstanding Drama Series nom.

Martin notes that the ceremony will be held Sept. 14 (six days before his birthday) at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. He says that he hopes to attend, but “that depends on … well, on a lot of things.” If he does attend, he’ll likely leave with at least one trophy to add to his collection of four Emmys.

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In the post, Martin also thanks his staff for helping him stay up to date on tasks. Unfortunately, though, they won’t be able to help much with the publication of his highly anticipated sixth and penultimate A Song of Ice and Fire / Games of Thrones novel, The Winds of Winter, which fans have been clamoring for.

According to NBC News, Martin addressed the criticism in a May 2025 post, writing, “[I] ought to get some other writer to pinch hit for me. … I am going to die soon anyway, because I am so old. I lost all interest in ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’ decades ago. I don’t give a s--- about writing any longer; I just sit around and spend my money.”

Despite everything he’s been carrying this year, Martin promises fans in his most recent post that they won't have to wait another six months to hear from him. 

“I will try not to wait so long before my next post,” he writes. “There’s a lot more to tell you.”

Related: Best-Selling Author’s Self-Published Novel Just Became Amazon’s Top-Selling Fiction Book

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Unless you're a strict minimalist (good on you, if you are), you probably have even just a small collection of something. That one thing that brings you joy and that you buy a new variation of, even though you have four others at home. For me, that's cake stands (and measuring cups, if I'm being honest). I love to bake, so having a pretty place to display freshly-made treats is kind of like the cherry on top of my hobby.

Because with cake stands, even when they aren't housing some delicious treats, they still look pretty. And cake stands can act as a display for any number of other things—from trinkets to hand soap. They just give everything a little lift (literally). Basically, I have to stop myself from buying every cute cake stand I come across so that I don't find myself on an episode of Hoarders in the not-so-distant future.

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10" x 7" Metal Cake Stand with Glass Cloche by Ashland, $22.19 (originally $36.99) at Michaels

Michaels

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But every so often a cake stand walks into my life that I have to own, and that's the case with this Metal Cake Stand with Glass Cloche by Ashland, available at Michaels. To be honest, it's the glass cloche that immediately sold me on the piece. It has the prettiest leaf-like etching in the glass, plus I love a cake stand that comes with a cover of some sort.

Related: Dollar General's $5 Vintage-Inspired Serving Platter Looks Straight Out of Grandma's China Cabinet

A seven-by-10-inch cake stand like this one is also really versatile in its size. It can comfortably display a small single-layer cake, a six- to eight-inch round cake, cupcakes, cookies, brownies or other bite-size desserts. It can also work as a serving piece for pastries, muffins, scones or a small assortment of snacks.

Something important to note: you can't pop this cake stand into the dishwasher when you want to clean it. Instead, Michaels advises using a soft damp cloth to make it look as good as new. You'll also want to avoid putting this in the oven or microwave. (Though I'm not quite sure why you would anyway.)

Right now the metal cake stand is a sweet 40 percent off at Michaels, so make sure you pick it up before it goes back to its full price.

Related: Target's Rustic 5-Tier Kitchen Rack Brings Fresh Farmstand Vibes Into Your Home

As summer begins to fade and the crisp air begins rushing in, it can only mean one thing—pumpkin season is officially on the horizon. 

It’s a treat for fans of the fall flavor, considering that it marks the return of some seriously beloved items, including all the pumpkin-themed menus at Starbucks and Dunkin’.

However, if you live somewhere where fall tends to be sunny and warm, you may find yourself reaching for a seasonal pint instead to cool off. 

Thankfully, Ben & Jerry’s understood the assignment, bringing back one of its most anticipated seasonal flavors: Pumpkin Cheesecake.

The fan-favorite flavor, dubbed the “ultimate” fall indulgence, was spotted by Instagrammer Snack_Time_Tommy at ShopRite stores already, much to the delight of ice cream lovers. 

Though it came with a warning—it's a flavor that "disappears fast every year."

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The limited-time flavor blends pumpkin cheesecake ice cream with a graham cracker swirl, delivering a rich experience that’s peak autumnal nostalgia. 

Ben & Jerry’s notes that the limited-batch ice cream is “a first-class ticket to pumpkin wonderful,” with a 4.5 rating from fans, who call it a “pumpkin lovers dream,” that’s “pretty flavorful” with its “rich and creamy texture” that’s bound to send your “tastebuds into overdrive.”

Comments like “Fall is here,” “tastes like fall,” and “This is one of the best ben and Jerry's ice cream flavors in my opinion this flavor should be all year around,” flooded the reviews page. 

The website also features a “where to buy” locator, making it easy to find the pints near you. Retailers already carrying the flavor include various Mariano’s, Kroger, and Fred Meyer locations. Last year, the flavor was announced on Sept. 20, making this year’s return an early arrival (and we're absolutely not complaining one bit).

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The ice cream is best enjoyed alongside cozy sweaters, changing leaves and a bonfire, or cuddled up on the couch watching your feel-good show set in a small town. Gilmore Girls, anyone?

And with Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, you can fully enjoy every bite, as it is non-GMO, made with cage-free eggs and from fairtrade ingredients since 2005. 

While Ben & Jerry’s has a solid offering of permanent and rotating flavors, including their newest ones—Honey GrahamLatte and Razz Up!—the Pumpkin Cheesecake has built up a loyal following due to its short window of availability. 

It’s a must-grab flavor that ushers in the pumpkin season, so grab it before it pulls the ultimate Halloween trick and vanishes from store shelves.

The Challenge is back with a brand-new season, and longtime fans will notice one major change before the first elimination even begins.

Season 42, titled The Challenge: Cutthroat, premieres Wednesday, Aug. 5, exclusively on Paramount+, bringing together 24 veteran competitors and newcomers for another shot at Challenge glory. This season also revives the franchise's classic three-team format, with players competing for a share of a $500,000 prize.

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How to Watch 'The Challenge' Season 42?

The Challenge: Cutthroat premieres Wednesday, Aug. 5 exclusively on Paramount+.

New episodes begin streaming at 3 a.m. ET / midnight PT, following Paramount+'s standard release schedule.

Unlike many previous seasons, the new installment will not premiere first on MTV. Instead, the series is launching directly on Paramount+, where subscribers can stream every episode as it's released.

New subscribers can try Paramount+ free for seven days before choosing a paid plan. Standard pricing starts at $8.99 per month for the Essential plan or $13.99 per month for the Premium plan. Students can receive 50% off a monthly subscription for their first year, while annual plans offer additional savings compared to paying month to month. Walmart+ members also receive the Paramount+ Essential plan at no additional cost as part of their membership.

What is 'The Challenge: Cutthroat' about?

Season 42 features 24 competitors divided into three teams, combining Challenge legends with first-time players from shows including Big Brother, Survivor, Love Island, The Amazing Race and more. Teams must work together throughout the season, balancing loyalty and strategy while trying to reach the final together and split the $500,000 prize.

Among the returning veterans are Johnny Bananas, CT Tamburello, Cara Maria Sorbello, Cory Wharton, Michele Fitzgerald, Tori Deal and Nelson Thomas, while newcomers include Josh Goldstein, Anna Leigh Wilson, Reilly Smedley and Alexis "Lete" Lete.

The season is inspired by the original Cutthroat, which aired in 2010 and introduced the franchise's memorable three-team format. While the new season features an entirely different cast and setting, it brings back the same emphasis on teamwork, strategy and survival.

Season 42 was filmed across Thailand, with production taking place in Bangkok, Pattaya and locations throughout the Chon Buri Province.

The Challenge: Cutthroat season 42 premieres Wednesday, August 5 at 3 a.m. ET/12 a.m. PT on Paramount+ with two back-to-back episodes. Subsequent new episodes drop every Wednesday at the same time.

Related: 'The Challenge' Season 42: Cast, Premiere Date, Trailer, How to Watch and More

Fans of the 2011 show New Girl are in for a treat! 

The sitcom, starring ZooeyDeschanel, MaxGreenfield, JakeJohnson, LamorneMorris, HannahSimone, and Damon Wayans Jr., is getting a union.

The cast of the beloved series will receive the Rising Phoenix Award at the Chrysalis Butterfly Ball in Los Angeles on October 10. The award “will recognize the series’ theme of starting over and people who make starting over possible,” according to Variety. 

The reunion was announced just days after Greenfield shared that an official show reunion was on the horizon. 

“As far as I know, it’s happening,” he said during an interview on Today With Jenna & Sheinelle on July 31. “I’ve seen scripts, they’re amazing.”

Greenfield admitted to Varietythat he was mistaken. 

“I misread the email,” the actor said. “Or should I say, I just read the subject, which read, ‘New Girl reunion.’” 

Greenfield confessed he’s made slip-ups like this before. 

“I’m still a work in progress,” he said. “I can only hope this little mix-up doesn’t dim the light we’re trying to shine on such an incredible organization.”

Greenfield will host the Chrysalis event, which is set to honor Banc of California chairman and CEO Jared Wolff with the Corporate Trailblazer Award.

“This year’s honorees reflect the resilience and second chances at the heart of Chrysalis’ work,” Chrysalis president and CEO MarkLoranger said in a statement Tuesday. “Jared, through his leadership at Banc of California, has invested in Los Angeles where our clients are doing the same and New Girl built seven seasons around characters navigating through life changes and starting over. Every year, Chrysalis helps thousands of people achieve goals they may not have thought possible, and the Butterfly Ball allows us to celebrate their accomplishments while ensuring that even more people have access to the support they need.” 

Goldie Hawn is having the time of her life on vacation with Kate Hudson and family.

Hawn, 80, rose to stardom on the sketch comedy program Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In, but it's roles in films like Private Benjamin, Overboard, and Bird on a Wire that have made her a staple in Hollywood. The longtime partner of Kurt Russell has also made her mark off the big screen, and with talented kids like Kate and Oliver Hudson, it's no surprise why.

In a new fun video shared to Kate's Instagram account, Hawn sports a black bathing suit as she dances with a giant bottle of pink wine in her hand while on vacation. Now that looks like the kind of vacation anyone would want!

"A few love letters from Europe 💌," Hudson captioned the photo set, which shows the fun video of Hawn in the fourth slide, as well as a variety of sweet shots of Hudson's daughter, Rani.

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Kate Hudson Frolicking Through Greece

Last month, Hudson, 47, took to Instagram to share stunning bathing suit photos from her vacation in the Greek Islands. The star, who rose to stardom as Penny Lane in 2000’s beloved musical film Almost Famous, solidified her star status over the years with roles in films like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Bride Wars, and Song Sung Blue. Now starring in the second season of the hilarious Netflix basketball series Running Point, the blonde beauty got a break from acting to hang out on the stunning island of Skiathos. Hudson sported a black string bikini as she prepped to jump off a boat into the crystal blue ocean.

In the following photos, Hudson showed the beautiful oasis as she enjoyed her holiday with her family. From speed boats to Greek cuisine, the family looks like they had a great time.

“My happy place,” Hudson captioned the photo carousel.

Check out the shots below:

View this post on Instagram Hudson’s Perspective on Parenting

Hudson, who is the daughter of legendary actress Goldie Hawn, has three children, Ryder, 22, Bingham, 14, and Rani, 7. She spoke candidly in a new interview about the values she’s instilled in her children as she’s gotten older.

“Well, my thing is, if my kids' drive or purpose is for fame and success, then it’s something that would feel like a failure of mine,” Hudson told Fox News Digital. “If that is how they equate feeling significant, then, you know, they’re being fed a lie.”

Instead, she hopes they find something that truly excites them in life, rather than placing all the emphasis on getting famous.

“So, for me, the most important thing for me with my kids is that they feel self-possessed, that they understand what really drives purpose, and what does a purposeful life look like for them, and where do they hold their values, right? What are those values and why? And if you value fame and success, we’d probably have a big sit-down,” Hudson continued.

Related: Kate Hudson’s Sideless Gown Torches the Fashion Competition on the Red Carpet

By the summer of 1977, Eddie and the Hot Rods had already established themselves as one of Britain's most energetic live bands.

But it was "Do Anything You Wanna Do" that elevated the Essex rockers to a new level of success. Released that year with Barrie Masters, then just 21 years old, on lead vocals, the song became the band's biggest hit and remains one of the era's most enduring rock anthems.

The track marked a new chapter for the band.

Written by bassist Graeme Douglas, who had recently joined the lineup after leaving The Kursaal Flyers, "Do Anything You Wanna Do" blended the raw urgency of punk with the melodic hooks of classic rock. The result appealed to both traditional rock fans and the growing new wave audience, helping Eddie and the Hot Rods bridge two musical worlds.

"The Hot Rods had always been a real raw live band," Masters told Louder. "Graeme was great for us as he added the tunefulness of The Byrds and things like that. We had the ballsy energy, and he had the melodic side. The whole album took eight days to record and mix. On 'Do Anything You Wanna Do' there are a lot of guitar overdubs, but the rhythm section and the majority of the backing track were recorded in one take. It's the way we've always liked to work – get the feeling right and then just go for it."

Masters' vocal performance became the song's defining feature.

His passionate delivery perfectly matched the lyrics' message of independence and self-belief, transforming the track into a rallying cry for listeners determined to forge their own path. Combined with the song's driving guitars and memorable chorus, the performance helped establish it as the band's signature recording.

The single quickly found commercial success.

Released from the album Life on the Line, "Do Anything You Wanna Do" climbed to No. 9 on the UK Singles Chart, giving Eddie and the Hot Rods their highest-charting hit. The song also earned significant radio airplay and introduced the band to audiences well beyond the British pub rock circuit where they had first built their reputation.

Its message has continued to resonate for generations.

Over the decades, "Do Anything You Wanna Do" has remained a staple of classic rock radio and has been featured on countless compilations celebrating the late 1970s. Its uplifting chorus and timeless message about individuality have ensured that the song still connects with listeners long after its original release.

"I think it just managed to capture the spirit of the time," Masters said in a 2014 interview. "That's what it did, and that's why it still works. In fact, a few years ago, we were on tour in America, and we were asked to play a few under age gigs, because a lot of kids under 21 couldn't get in to see our regular shows. So we took a chance, they went well, and virtually every night I'd have kids coming up after the show and saying, 'I can’t believe that song is nearly forty years old! How did you know, when you wrote it, that it was going to be the way we feel, now?' They really thought that we'd written it about them and couldn't understand that it was also the way we felt back then. So that's really something. It hasn't aged at all."

Nearly 50 years later, "Do Anything You Wanna Do" remains the song most closely associated with Eddie and the Hot Rods. Featuring a 21 year-old Barrie Masters at the microphone, the 1977 classic continues to stand as a powerful reminder that some of rock's greatest anthems are the ones that encourage listeners to be unapologetically themselves.

Related: 1966 Rock Song, Written in 15 Minutes, Was a No. 1 Hit 60 Years Ago Today

Fans of Robert Plant know that an evening with the legendary Led Zeppelin singer is truly a concert you won't forget. Unlike some bands that tour for months or years on end, Plant is a bit more purposeful.

His most recent U.S. tour ran a mere three weeks: from Mar. 14 through Apr. 7. His next U.S. concert dates will be almost four weeks, from Sept. 18 through Oct. 15. If you weren't quick enough to snag tickets to those shows, don't fret: he just announced that he'll give a special performance on Dec. 2 at the Royal Albert Hall in London, England.

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The show isn't just a one-off Plant concert, though, but a gathering of some of the most prolific rock musicians. "Stand By Me: Bob Harris -- A Celebration of Life in Music" is meant to honor retiring BBC broadcaster Bob Harris, who is battling prostate cancer.

Robert "Whispering Bob" Harris co-founded the magazine Time Out in 1968 before becoming the host of The Old Grey Whistle Test. He introduced and interviewed some of the most legendary musicians of all time during his shows, including Santana, Led Zeppelin, Linda Ronstadt, and George Harrison. After receiving news that his cancer had spread to his spine, he made the difficult decision to step away from hosting Radio 2 Country and Sounds of the 70s to focus on getting better.

Plant's Words of Support During Harris's Cancer Battle

Harris is beloved by many, and one of those people who considers him a friend just happens to be Plant. In an April BBC Radio 2 interview, Harris recalled calling him up after his most recent diagnosis left him in shock.

"He phoned me back, and he said, 'Right, tell me everything,'" Harris recalled. After spilling everything, Plant said something that Harris looked at as "the most important thing that anybody has ever said to me."

"He said, 'You'll get through this, do you know why?' And I said, 'Go on.' And he said, 'You know what to do.'"

"That advice,' You know what to do,' was massive," Harris continued. "Because I thought, 'Yeah, I do, I really do know what to do.' And the one thing I'm not going to do is let this pull me in."

Star-Studded Lineup and Ticket Details

Along with Plant, the concert will feature Roger Daltrey of The Who, The Jam's Paul Weller, Rick Wakeman of Yes, Squeeze's Chris Difford, Carly Pearce, Beth Nielsen Chapman, Judie Tzuke, Kate Rusby, Kezia Gill, Toby Lee, The Shires, and Plant's band with Suzi Dian, Saving Grace. Tickets will go on sale Friday, Aug. 7.

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Heading back to school means less time at home and less control over whether or not your kids actually eat what you pack them for lunch. My own children often fail to consume more than a bite or two of anything other than chips or a granola bar, leaving me questioning all of my life choices as the fruits and veggies I sent for lunch wither away uneaten, lost to the depths of their backpacks. 

Founded by a dad who's intimately familiar with the lunchbox struggle, Grüns Kids was created to solve nutritional gaps in a child's diet. According to information from the retailer, nearly 90% of kids in the United States aren't eating enough vegetables, and most fall short of recommended fiber intake. And those apples and carrots you packed them for lunch? They're the most likely foods to come back home untouched. That's where Grüns Kids Superfood Gummies come in. Shaped like a gummy bear, but packed with essential nutrients, they're one thing you can pack in your child's lunchbox and feel good about. 

Always consult a healthcare professional before starting a new supplement routine.

Grüns Kids Superfood Gummies, From $34 (was $67) at Grüns Kids

Courtesy of Grüns

Shop at Grüns Kids

Reportedly made with organic fruits, vegetables, and mushrooms, each serving of Grüns Kids Superfood Gummies contains more than 60 whole-food ingredients, over 20 essential vitamins and minerals, plus prebiotic fiber. Recommended for children ages 2 to 13, they come pre-packaged in individual daily snack pack servings (28 packs in each order).

Grüns Kids Superfood Gummies are vegan-friendly and free from artificial colors and synthetic sweeteners. It's important to note, however, that these gummies do contain sugar or sugar alcohols, depending on whether you choose the low-sugar or sugar-free version. Supplements aren’t designed to replace healthy eating, so it’s important to make sure to check with your doctor or pediatrician before adding new vitamins or supplements to your kids’ daily intake.

The gummies come in an original strawberry flavor, as well as a new raspberry lemonade version. "My daughter who will barely touch a veggie ate all of these immediately," one parent who called these gummies a "game changer" raved. Another customer shared that "the ease of use and being prepackaged makes it convenient to grab and carry," which makes them especially perfect for packing as a daycare snack time and in school lunches.

Related: Walmart's Insulated Thermos Is the 'Perfect Size' for Enjoying Soups, Salads, and Leftovers On-the-Go

Ordering the Grüns Kids Superfood Gummies through the retailer's website is meant to be quick and easy. Most orders ship within 24 hours, arriving on average two days later, which is not much different from ordering something at Amazon. And if your child doesn't like the gummies, there's a 30-day guarantee on your first order, so you can return or exchange them risk-free. 

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The scalloped trend is giving this season’s dresses and tops a sweeter finish, but trying the look doesn’t have to cost boutique prices. The Saodimallsu Scalloped Tank Top starts at just $11 at Amazon and comes in 40 solid, striped, and polka-dot options. Prices vary by color and currently top out at about $20, but the green version is the best deal at 66% off. It’s marked down to $13 from $40, and most colors are available in sizes small through extra large.

The pull-on tank is made from 80% viscose and 20% polyamide, giving it a soft, stretchy feel. It features a square neckline and wide shoulder straps that offer a little more coverage than a spaghetti-strap cami. The scalloped trim frames the scoop neckline and continues around the arm openings, including across the back, so it’s not a one-sided design.

Saodimallsu Scalloped Tank Top, $13 (was $40) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

The tank’s charming scalloped neckline is what really sets this top apart from the other shirts you probably already have, while the matching armhole trim keeps the detail visible from all sides which makes it look pricier than it is. It’s also pretty enough to dress up denim but still versatile enough for everyday wear, and the wide straps make it easier to wear with a standard bra, which is always a perk.

“This tank top is so cute and flattering! The scalloped neckline adds a feminine touch that makes it look more expensive than it is,” one shopper shared, adding, “The fabric is soft, stretchy, and comfortable.” Other reviewers described it as “very pretty,” “breathable,” and “perfect for hot summer weather.”

Related: Walmart’s 'Pretty' $4 Cotton-Linen T-Shirt Has the Sweetest Ruffle Hem and Comes in 22 Colors

Similar scallop-trim knit tanks can cost anywhere from $60 to $140 at full price, so this one falls well below the typical range. The scalloped detailing is also knitted directly into the neckline and arm openings rather than added as separate lace, giving the top a cleaner finish without featuring extra material that could snag or fray.

Shop More Deals

• Automet Ruched Tank Top, From $5 (was $15) at Amazon
• Idealsanxun Linen Crop Tank Top, From $14 (was $30) at Amazon
• Bilwov V-Neck Tank Top, From $4 (was $10) at Amazon

If you’ve been looking for a way to add a sweeter, more unique touch to your summer wardrobe, the Saodimallsu Scalloped Tank Top is a budget-friendly find worth grabbing. Be sure to snag yours now while it’s still marked down this low on Amazon.

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales twice a week.

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

If I'm being honest, I have all of these aspirational ideas of how to make my kitchen more functional in a way that's both stylish and gets my family to eat a little healthier. While I haven't found the miracle solution yet, I'm definitely not giving up. Whether it's a Lazy Susan filled with better-for-you snacks or a decorative basket that houses fresh fruit, I want to make sure delicious options are front and center.

In a perfect world, I'd have a kitchen island that also acts as a salad bar, but space constraints make that impossible, at least in my home. However, I may have stumbled upon the next best thing—a somewhat compact piece of kitchen furniture that makes sure fruits and veggies that don't need refrigeration get their time to shine.

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Hbezon Wood Food Storage Rack and Snack Organizer, $234.99 (originally $522.99) at Target

Target

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Target is selling this Hbezon Wood Food Storage Rack and Snack Organizer, which has five tiers for storing kitchen necessities and can hold a lot of stuff. Measuring 46.1 inches high by 13.79 inches wide and 23.64 inches deep, it delivers practical organization in a space-conscious footprint. (Because not everyone has room for a ginormous kitchen island.)

Related: Aldi Brought Back Its Bedside Organizer That's Perfect for Dorm Life

Of course you can store more on this rack than just produce. It works just as easily for any other food items you want within reach. And if you're planning a full day of meal prepping for the week, you can always stock it with all of the ingredients you need to create those dishes so you aren't constantly running back and forth to the fridge or pantry.

If you're wondering which fruits and vegetables don't need refrigeration, look to the produce department of your favorite grocery store. Produce like bananas, tomatoes, avocados, peaches, nectarines, plums, mangoes and whole melons can stay out of the fridge, especially while they're ripening. Meanwhile, potatoes, sweet potatoes, onions, garlic and winter squash are also best kept at room temperature in a cool, dark, well-ventilated spot. Once ripe or cut, though, many fruits and vegetables should be moved to the refrigerator to help them stay fresh longer. Just keep onions and potatoes stored separately on different tiers of this rack—they can cause each other to spoil more quickly.

Related: Dollar General's $5 Vintage-Inspired Serving Platter Looks Straight Out of Grandma's China Cabinet

For the Judges Callbacks on America’s Got Talent, each of the judges – Simon Cowell, Howie Mandel, Mel B and Sofia Vergara – got to select five or six acts that had received at least three yeses for a second look in order to decide if they were worthy of appearing on the Live Shows.

Tonight, on AGT, the artists picked by Simon and Mel B will perform one more time and hope for a thumbs up. Among the artists that Simon selected is Dancing with the Stars vocalist Travis Garland, who is hoping to use the NBC talent competition to break out from the pack.

“Dancing is a really heavy workload,” the singer-songwriter from Lubbock, TX exclusively tells Parade. ‘We're doing anywhere from 10 to 20 songs a week all different styles and I'm given what I'm assigned by our DWTSmusic director Ray Chew. AGT is cool because it's me as an artist. I'm not the background guy and I'm getting to choose what songs to perform and really show a little more of who I am as an artist, so it’s been awesome.”

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Travis auditioned on Night 1 of the AGT 2026 season and he only received three yeses. Howie wasn’t a fan, telling Travis he was “too theatrical” and “over rehearsed.” Luckily for Travis, the other judges didn’t agree.

“People made a whole thing of that, of me getting a no from Howie,” Travis says. “He said I was too theatrical. For me, I take all that with a grain of salt. Howie is entitled to his opinion. At the same time, he said he felt like I was over-rehearsed. I've been telling people — spoiler alert — I was very rehearsed. This is a huge opportunity and I came in prepared. Getting feedback or a no or anything like that doesn't scare me or deter me at all. I've been getting told no my whole career. I always say you can't ever let the criticism go to your heart, and you can't ever let the compliments go to your head, so that's like a mantra I live by. Howie was entitled to his opinion. If he didn't like it, that's great; I'm looking to win him over in the next round.”

During his meeting with Simon at the judges’ Malibu Beach home while filming the callbacks, Travis received some excellent advice from the mentor, which he says he will carry with him moving forward.

“On shows like this, the tendency is to go big,” Travis shares. “There’s people lighting themselves on fire and nailing stuff to their face. Simon told me, ‘Travis, you don't need to do any of that.’ He told me, ‘You have one of those voices.’ He said, ‘You're the best vocalist we have on this season.’  He said, ‘You remind me of the singers that we used to have on the early seasons of Idol, people like Kelly Clarkson and Jennifer Hudson and they didn't need to do anything except sing. You don't need all the bells and whistles to stand up there and sing. You have one of those voices.'”

So, if Travis makes the cut on tonight’s America’s Got Talent Judges Callbacks, he has a plan in place to try to win America’s vote and make through to the finale.

“My plan is what it's always been, which is just to be myself,” he says. “Everybody else is already taken. For me, I'm a singer-songwriter-performer-producer. I've been doing covers for a long time on YouTube. I've been doing covers for a long time on TV on Dancing with the Stars, so I definitely want to just come with an original flip on some of these covers that people have heard. My goal when doing the cover is always how can I tap the original, how can I bring something different that's even better than the original maybe that people haven't heard. If I continue progressing to the rounds, you might hear an original song out of me. We'll see.”

Read below for more of our interview with Travis Garland.

Related:Who Earned a Golden Buzzer on America’s Got Talent Season 21? See the Full List of Winners

You are used to singing in front of a live audience because of DWTS, but also, when you were younger, you were in a boy band, Not Like Them (NLT). How was being on the AGT stage different?
Like you said, I've been doing this a long time. I've been performing on stages since I was a little kid, so that isn't anything new, but for me, I get the same nerves every time I go on stage. Every time I go out on stage, it's like the first time. I'm deathly… stomach in knots, and then the second I start singing, that all goes away, so that was the same feeling, the same nerves, the same excitement. I live for that: Facing the fear and overcoming it. It's a little different on AGT because you're talking with the judges. It's kind of like doing a job interview right before you give a performance, so that's new. But I'm just soaking up the experience and enjoying the ride and really excited for people to see this next round tomorrow night.

For the Judges Callbacks, you are one of Simon Cowell’s picks. Is it more special because it’s him and he’s known for putting together One Direction, Fifth Harmony and Il Divo? What did it mean that it was Simon that picked you to be his Callback?
That was really cool for me. A big part of coming on this show was getting to connect with Simon. I feel really grateful that he picked me for this round because I get to connect with him and work with him personally. He actually picked my song I'm performing on this next episode, so that was cool to get some feedback from him and Mel, too. These are the two people who have long, successful careers in music, and they were the ones that I feel saw me and appreciated what I do, so that was really cool. I'm hopefully going to continue working with Simon more and always appreciate someone like him who's had a long, successful career of picking talent, just getting any feedback, advice, and coaching from him along the way.

Tell us something about Dancing with the Stars that would surprise our readers that we don't know because we don't see what you do behind the scenes.
There's a new surprise every week on Dancing with the Stars. There could be an entire TV show just on the behind-the-scenes to make it to each Tuesday night, but I think for me, one of the biggest surprises and challenges is every week taking on a new genre. Some weeks it's like hair metal week and I've got to scream my lungs out and do rock songs from the ‘80s. Then we'll turn around the next week and it's Broadway week, and then the following week it’s Motown week and it’s all R&B. These are all styles that I’ve grown up doing and trained in. It’s something that I pride myself on: that I can do a lot of different styles, so I think that's something that sets me apart, and that's something I'm looking to showcase on AGT: That I can do a wide range of styles. I don't think many people can do that, so I'm looking to showcase my range.

America’s Got Talent airs Tuesday nights at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC. Streams next day on Peacock.

Related: Simon Cowell Opens Up About Historic 'AGT' Format Shake-Up: 'It Was Better Than I Thought' (Exclusive)